Attract birds to your feeder

People have been interested in feeding wild birds in America since the mid 1800s. From the early 1900s, the first hummingbird feeder has been manufactured on a commercial basis. Today, feeding the birds is an exciting hobby that over 60 million Americans are enjoying everyday. One of the first questions that eager bird watchers ask when they get their first feeder is,’How do I attract the birds into my bird feeders?’

Tip #1: Be consistent.
Try to adhere to a routine by maintaining feeders filled with the seed or suet that’s the favorite of those birds you want to attract. Birds will return to the very same feeders if they are rewarded with food every time.

Tip #2: Use the appropriate bird feeder.
Since birds are attracted to different kinds of bird feeder designs, you can raise your odds by fitting the species with the bird feeder design specifically made for it. Select from the many types of feeders offered below:

Tip #3: Where should I hang the bird feeder?
Place your bird feeder at a spot where the birds can feel protected-somewhere in close proximity to trees and shrubs. Furthermore, they will use foliage, grasses and twigs as nesting materials. Avoid predators by placing bird feeders at least four feet off the floor and away from lower and fences, hanging branches. Many birds, like bluebirds, prefer to have an open view when feeding so that they can keep their eyes open for predators.

Tip #4: Include a water source close to the bird feeder.
Birds are attracted to water for bathing and sipping. As they are drawn to the sound of water, the light spray of a hose will bring them flitting to this water source. Robins and hummingbirds appreciate the glow of water and love to fly through the spray. The moist ground makes it easier for robins to snag a pig or two. Shallow, birdbaths welcome various kinds of birds who need to eliminate dust or mites from their feathers.

Hint #5: Include native plants in your backyard.
Native plants will attract specific birds to your backyard. Some birds like woodpeckers and bluebirds enjoy berries and fruits together with insects, whereas finches like the seeds of indigenous coneflowers or Echinacea.

How long should you wait to see birds in the feeder once you hang it?
First, have patience. It will take a while for birds to find your feeder and start using it as a source of food. Wait for up to fourteen days, then add a few new ideas.

Try sprinkling some of their favorite seed on the ground and around the feeder. This will help them find the bird feeder and realize that there’s a food source nearby. Or, the location might not be the most appropriate for them. Most birds like to feel protected. Move the bird feeder to another place that has shrubs or conifers for them to hide and watch from. Birds like to remain concealed from predators as they fly to and from the bird feeder.